The Penguin Foundation is proud to support an exciting new threatened species program led by Phillip Island Nature Parks which aims to establish a self-sustaining wild population of Bush stone-curlews (Burhinus grallarius) on Phillip Island (Millowl).

The Bush stone-curlew is critically endangered in Victoria, and locally extinct on Millowl. At Phillip Island Nature Parks, we have two breeding pairs, and are excited to announce two chicks have hatched! The chicks will form part of a broader recovery program for the threatened species in Victoria. If you are lucky enough to be visiting, please sure to pay them a visit to admire their fluffy plumage. Or stay tuned for photos and updates on social media.

The Penguin Foundation was proud to establish two purpose-built, threatened species aviaries at the Koala Conservation Reserve to protect threatened fauna and flora. The Ground Services Construction Team built a timber framed aviary (6m x 9m) to house two Bush stone-curlews. The aviary was constructed using wire mesh walls and roof (wire mesh to allow people to see the birds, as well as natural prey (insects) to come and go from the aviary. There is an enclosed “shed” area at one end (for birds to hide/avoid bad weather as required). Captive animals can provide an important connection for people to observe wildlife that they would not usually get to see up close. These aviaries present an invaluable opportunity to create an "ideal woodland" environment with threatened flora also protected in the aviaries. Signage on and near the aviaries will assists in telling the story of the species ‐ their threats, habits, recovery efforts and previous residence on Phillip Island (Millowl). These signs include changeable panels to illustrate what the birds are doing at particular times of the year.